10th May 2025
Matt Bell

Starting conditions - open communications

We established openness as the default communication principle rather than keeping information closed. This transparency was implemented through groups.io as the primary platform, though it wasn't without challenges.
Some people felt uncomfortable posting openly, while others experienced information overload from the constant stream of communications. The email-based system also presented difficulties for those who preferred verbal or face-to-face interaction, creating a tension that was difficult to reconcile given time and capacity constraints.
Despite these challenges, open communication ensured everyone had access to the same information and could stay updated on developments. Team members didn't have to wonder what was happening in other areas or feel left out of important conversations. Whilst some thrived with written updates that they could process at their own pace, others found it difficult to keep up with email threads and would have preferred in-person discussions.
Our experience highlights a broader challenge in movement building: digital platforms haven't yet evolved to fully accommodate the diverse communication needs of collaborative working. Until technology catches up, finding the right balance between accessibility, transparency, and information management will continue to be a significant hurdle for similar initiatives.